The Roads Authority of Malawi has issued a public notice warning of a disruption on the M005 road at the Lifidzi Bridge, which connects Salima‑Chipoka route.
In a statement, the Authority says that heavy rains and flooding have undermined the approach slab of the bridge which is situated near Lifidzi Trading Centre on Chipongwe‑Chipoka side, about 16 kilometres from Kamuzu Road in Salima District.
The damage, attributed to a change in the river course and associated erosion has left the bridge accessible only to light vehicles and for such a reason motorists are advised to exercise caution and use alternative routes where possible.
To ensure public safety, the Authority has put in place temporary measures, including police officers who have been stationed on site to manage and regulate traffic flow and protective warning materials have been placed on both bridge approaches to alert motorists to the hazard.
The Roads Authority is mobilising a contractor to undertake urgent remedial works aimed at restoring safe passage for all vehicles.
The Authority also revealed that it will conduct immediate site assessments and begin rehabilitation to prevent further structural damage and reopen full access to the bridge.
